Kamil Perry
Tuna Helper is a popular boxed dish that can be made at home with fresh ingredients. It is a quick and easy meal to prepare, and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The key ingredients are pasta, canned tuna, and cheese. The cheese in Tuna Helper is typically a combination of cheddar and parmesan, although some recipes call for cream cheese or blue cheese. The boxed version of Tuna Helper is advertised as being made with 100% real cheese and no artificial colours or flavours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese | Cheddar, Parmesan, Blue Cheese |
| Pasta | Shell, Rotini, Macaroni, Egg Noodles |
| Other Ingredients | Broth, Butter, Milk, Cream, Vegetables, Tuna |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar and Parmesan are the cheeses used
Tuna Helper is a popular dish that can be made at home or purchased as a boxed meal. The boxed version of Tuna Helper is made with 100% real cheese, and while the manufacturer does not specify the type of cheese used, the ingredients list mentions cheddar cheese and blue cheese.
When preparing Tuna Helper from scratch, the two types of cheese used are typically Cheddar and Parmesan. Cheddar cheese is known for its sharp, tangy flavour and melts well when grated directly from the block. Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, adds a salty, nutty flavour and can be purchased already shredded or in a block. Grating Parmesan directly from the block yields better melting properties.
The combination of Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses in Tuna Helper creates a creamy, cheesy sauce that complements the other ingredients, such as pasta and tuna. The sauce is a key component of the dish, providing flavour and texture.
Some recipes for Tuna Helper may also incorporate additional cheeses, such as cream cheese, to enhance the creaminess of the sauce. The versatility of the dish allows for customisation to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences.
By using a combination of Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, Tuna Helper achieves a balance of flavours and textures that has made it a popular meal option, whether prepared from scratch or enjoyed as a convenient boxed meal.
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Tuna Helper can be made gluten-free
Tuna Helper is a popular dish, but it can be a challenge to make it gluten-free due to the wheat flour and pasta traditionally used in the recipe. However, with a few simple substitutions, it is possible to enjoy a gluten-free version of this comfort food.
The key to making Tuna Helper gluten-free is to choose the right ingredients. Firstly, opt for gluten-free pasta made from alternative grains such as brown rice or other gluten-free options available in the market. This ensures that the dish remains safe for those with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
Secondly, when it comes to thickening the sauce, wheat flour is typically used in the traditional recipe. A gluten-free alternative is rice flour or cornstarch, which can be used in a similar way to create a creamy texture without the gluten.
Additionally, some recipes call for breadcrumbs to be added for a crispy texture. To keep the dish gluten-free, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used, or this step can be skipped altogether.
When preparing the dish, it is crucial to avoid cross-contamination. This involves ensuring that the utensils, cookware, and preparation surfaces are free from any gluten residue. It is also important to carefully read the labels of all the ingredients used, as some packaged foods may contain hidden gluten or be at risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing.
Finally, while tuna itself is naturally gluten-free, it is important to check the packaging if using canned tuna, as some brands may include gluten-containing additives or seasonings.
By making these simple adjustments, individuals with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease can safely enjoy Tuna Helper without compromising on taste or convenience. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs with careful ingredient selection and preparation methods.
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It can be made with or without cream
Tuna Helper is a popular dish that can be made at home or bought pre-made in a box. The boxed version contains enriched pasta (wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid), corn starch, wheat flour, salt, and modified whey, among other ingredients. It also includes cheddar and blue cheese, which are dried.
When making Tuna Helper from scratch, the key ingredients are pasta, canned tuna, and cheese. The type of pasta used can vary, with shell pasta being a popular choice, as well as gluten-free options like brown rice macaroni noodles or regular pasta such as rotini. The amount of pasta used can range from 1 to 2 cups, depending on the recipe and serving size.
The cheese used in homemade Tuna Helper is typically a combination of cheddar and parmesan, with some recipes also mentioning cream cheese. The amount of cheese added can vary, but it is usually around 2-3 cups of shredded cheddar and/or parmesan. The cheese is added towards the end of the cooking process and stirred until melted to create a creamy, cheesy sauce.
While cream is not a necessary ingredient in Tuna Helper, it can be added to enhance the creaminess of the dish. Heavy cream or milk can be used, with some recipes calling for evaporated milk specifically. The amount of liquid added can be adjusted to achieve the desired consistency, and butter can also be added for extra creaminess and flavor.
In summary, Tuna Helper is a versatile dish that can be made with or without cream, depending on the desired texture and taste. The key ingredients of pasta, tuna, and cheese form the basis of the dish, with various additives and substitutions possible to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.
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It can be made with or without garlic
Tuna Helper is a popular dish that can be made at home or purchased as a boxed meal. The homemade version typically includes pasta, canned tuna, vegetables, and cheese, while the boxed version is marketed as being made with "100% REAL cheese".
The cheese in Tuna Helper can be customised according to personal preference. While some recipes call for cheddar and parmesan, others suggest using only parmesan, and some recommend adding cream cheese to the sauce.
Garlic is an optional ingredient in Tuna Helper. It can be added in the form of garlic powder or minced garlic, with the latter being added just before simmering to enhance the flavour.
For those who enjoy a creamy texture, heavy cream or butter can be added to the dish. Additionally, breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top and broiled for a crispy texture.
Tuna Helper can be made gluten-free by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free options such as brown rice noodles or gluten-free rotini.
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It can be made with or without breadcrumbs
Tuna Helper is a popular boxed dish that can be made at home with fresh ingredients. It is a quick and easy meal that can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The dish typically includes pasta, canned tuna, vegetables, and cheese.
The type of cheese used in Tuna Helper can vary depending on personal preference. Cheddar and Parmesan are commonly used, and it is recommended to grate them fresh off the block for the best flavor and consistency. Some recipes also include cream cheese to add creaminess and flavor to the sauce.
When making Tuna Helper, the pasta is cooked according to the package instructions and set aside. A roux is made by melting butter and stirring in flour, and then onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are added. Milk or chicken broth is gradually added while stirring to create a sauce. The cheeses are then stirred in until melted, and the pasta and tuna are added to the sauce.
The dish can be served as-is or baked in the oven to melt the cheese on top. Some people also add breadcrumbs or panko crumbs to the top for added texture and crispiness. This can be done by frying the breadcrumbs in oil for a minute or broiling them for a few minutes before serving.
Overall, Tuna Helper is a versatile and budget-friendly dish that can be customized to personal preferences. It can be made with or without breadcrumbs, depending on the desired texture and presentation of the final dish.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar and Parmesan are the two cheeses used in Tuna Helper.
Pre-shredded cheese can be used, but it is coated in powder to prevent clumping, which may affect how well it melts.
Parmesan cheese that comes in a block is preferred as it melts better.
